Tracy Fant Colvin, DVM
Owner
Dr. Tracy Colvin grew up in Southeast Texas and knew from the age of 5 she wanted to be a veterinarian. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Science with a double major in Animal Science from Texas A&M University in 1992, followed by her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1998.
Her passion for helping animals of all sizes led her to Uvalde, Texas in 2002, where she continues to serve the community as a family veterinarian. Dr. Colvin enjoys working with a wide variety of species including horses, dogs, cats, pigs, rabbits, chickens, and ferrets. She has a special interest in equine medicine, particularly hoof health and dental care, and enjoys hands-on work with horses, donkeys, and miniature equines.
A longtime leader in organized veterinary medicine, Dr. Colvin served the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) Executive Board from 2006 to 2015 and was elected TVMA president in 2014. Administering the Veterinary Oath at the Texas A&M University’s graduating ceremony on behalf of TVMA remains one of her proudest professional moments. She has also been an active member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) for over 25 years and is an active member of the American Associate of Equine Practitioners.
Dr. Colvin completed her initial Fear Free certification in 2018 and later earned her Equine Fear Free certification in 2022. She also holds a Mackinaw Dells Applied Whole Horse Hoof-Care certification in which included advanced hands-on training in equine hood health.
She currently serves as the Uvalde County Junior Livestock show- Horse Show Committee and continues to dedicate herself to advance equine education and welfare in South Texas.
Outside of work, Dr. Colvin enjoys photography, trail riding, reading, and spending time with her husband and their 4 children.
Jenny Russell, DVM, MPH
Owner
Dr. Russell originally hailed from a farm and ranch family in Stonewall County, Texas and moved to Uvalde from Southlake, Texas in 2014 to support her longtime friend and veterinary classmate in running a veterinary practice. Dr. Russell has a particular fondness for cats and shares her life and home with “Carl Cotton” & “Flousy Goose” , nakkie Sphynx kitties, and “Pico Sir”, the slightly naughty JRT, and Mr. Harry Brown, the boisterous Briard who all accompany her to work on occasion. She and Eddie Stevenson joined their lives in Cabo San Lucas in 2017 and enjoy participating in and raising their children, Lauren and Wesley Stevenson, in the Uvalde community.
Dr. Russell believes in education and remaining up to date with current veterinary medical knowledge, techniques, and treatments. Her current professional development interest is ultrasonography and becoming proficient in both abdominal and cardiac scans. Her overall professional interests are centered around public health and small animal medicine & surgery. In 2015, in order to help SWTVMC continue its tradition of caring for orphaned and injured wildlife, she became licensed to rehabilitate native Texas wildlife.
Dr. Russell enjoys team building and strives for the practice to continually invest and develop its members. Her most current efforts are in increasing the internal capacity of our SWTVMC team by raising both technician and client service skill levels. Each member of the SWTVMC team has a pathway to follow for continuous improvement. Fear Free has been integrated into our practice culture and onboarding process. Fear Free signifies a transformative approach to veterinary care that ensures a patient’s emotional well-being is given the same level of attention as their physical well-being. Fear Free helps us make the veterinary visit more pleasant for both our patients and clients.
She received a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science in 1994 from Texas Tech University, a Bachelor of Veterinary Science in 1995 and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1998, both from Texas A&M University and completed her Masters in Public Health (epidemiology) from University of Texas, in 2013. She has served as President of the Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice whose members voluntarily agreed to complete at least 50 hours of continuing education each year. She also maintains membership with The Veterinary Information Network (VIN). Dr. Russell is a member of American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Texas Veterinary Medical (TVMA), and the Southwest Texas Veterinary Medical Association (STVMA). She serves on Paraprofessional and Practice Management Committees for Texas Veterinary Medical Association, previously serving on the Public Health and Disaster Preparedness Committee. She also serves as Uvalde County’s Local Rabies Control Authority
Her hobbies include continuing education, physical fitness, and bible study. Dr. Russell is a member of First Baptist Church Uvalde and is a sustaining member of The Junior League of San Antonio.
Taylor Stokes, DVM
Dr. Stokes grew up in Tomball, Texas, just outside of Houston. Her love for large animals began at a young age through horseback riding and participating in FFA. She attended Tarleton State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science and served as president of Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. Dr. Stokes went on to earn her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas A&M University in 2024, where she also served as president of the Texas A&M chapter of Christian Veterinary Mission organization. She is currently a member of the AVMA, TVMA, and CVM.
Dr. Stokes and her husband moved to the area in the spring of 2024, allowing her husband to pursue his career in law enforcement, along with their miniature Australian Shepherd, Scout (also known as Scooter). They are proud members of the First Baptist Church of Uvalde. In their free time, they enjoy spending time with friends and family throughout Texas.
Dr. Stokes loves all creatures great and small and is happy to call SWTVMC and Uvalde home.
Brianna Stofas, DVM, MS
Dr. Stofas grew up in Kerrville, Texas, and attended Texas A&M University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Science and received a Research Certification for her work in wildlife research laboratory. She later earned her Master’s in Biomedical Science from Texas A&M University and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine, where she was a member of the inaugural class.
During her clinical year, Dr. Stofas completed a rotation at SWTVMC and knew immediately that this was where she wanted to be. She moved to the area in the spring of 2025 with her two pets, Luna and Beyonce. Luna is a French bulldog born blind with a cleft lip and palate- her loyal partner in crime. Beyonce, a once semi-feral cat, now happily enjoys the comforts of the indoors.
Dr. Stofas enjoys working with a variety of species, but primary interests include small animal medicine, exotics, and wildlife. She is passionate about preventive care and strives to build lasting relationships with her patients and clients.
Mary Verstuyft, CVBL, CVA 3
Practice Coordinator
Mary Verstuyft was born in Texas City, Texas and raised in Leakey, Texas. She and her husband, Nathan married in 2009 and now live on their farm in Batesville with their two daughters, Claire and Margaret, and two beloved dogs.
Mary joined SWTVMC in February 2012 as an animal care attendant and quickly discovered her passion for veterinary medicine. She trained as a veterinary technician later that same year and became lead technician in 2016. In 2020, Mary earned her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level III credential-becoming the 76th CVA iii in the entire state of Texas!
Always eager to grow in her field, Mary became Fear Free Certified in 2021 and earned both her Practice Management Certification and Certified Veterinary Business Leader.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys saltwater fishing, hunting, and spending time outdoors with her family. Her daughters share her love for animals and agriculture. They are active in 4-H and enjoy showing pigs and learning about livestock care.
Thomas Crow, AEVA, IAEDP, TSBVME Licensed Equine Dentist
Large Animal Technician
Thomas was born and raised in Texas and graduated from Brackettville High school. He attended Southwest Texas College where he was member of their prestigious rodeo team competing in team roping.
Thomas joined the SWTVMC team in January of 2002. His lifelong passion for and experience with horses made him an excellent fit for our equine technician team. Dedicated to advancing his skills and knowledge, Thomas has attended numerous continuing education seminars focused on equine medicine and surgery.
In 2015, he completed his Coggins Lab Training (EIA) through the USDA. In 2018, he completed an intensive online training program to become a Certified Equine Veterinary Assistant. He continued his education in 2019, earning his Applied Whole Horse Hoof Care Certification with additional coursework in hoof pathology. He also earned his Cervid Chronic Waste Disease Sampling Collection (CWD) certification. In 2022 Thomas also completed his Fear Free certification. In addition, Thomas is also a Purina Certified Nutrition Consultant.
Over the course of three years, Thomas dedicated more than 480 classroom hours and extensive practical training to prepare for the International Association of Equine Dental Providers certification. After completing his certification, Thomas successfully passed the Texas State Board Equine Dentist Exam and earned his place among the elite few Licensed Equine Dental Providers. His grit, dedication, and passion for equine care are truly inspiring, and we are proud to have him as part of our team.
In his free time, he enjoys team roping and competing in ranch rodeos. He loves working with horses, and spending time with his wife, Teresa, also o Uvalde, and their three children Briana, Carter, and Trevor.
Kellie Zook, CVA 3, BBA
Veterinary Technician
Kellie joined our team as a veterinary technician in February of 2022. She earned her Associates of Science degree from Ranger College in 2015 and went on to receive her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Tarleton State University in 2017.
Since joining our team, Kellie completed her Fear Free Certification in 2022, and in October of 2023 earned her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 3 certification. She has a strong passion for veterinary dentistry and has dedicated many hours to continuing her education in this area, providing the highest quality of dental care for our patients.
Outside of work, she likes keeping up with true crime, binge watching Grey’s Anatomy, and spending time with family and friends.
Barbara Rodriguez, CVA 2
Client Service Coordinator
Barbara Rodriguez was born in Los Angeles, California, and grew up in Hondo, Texas. She graduated from the College of Texas Careers in San Antonio with a certification as a nationally registered medical assistant. She currently resides in Sabinal, Texas
Before joining SWTVMC, Barbara worked as a medical assistant at community Health Development for 16 years, where she developed a deep passion for learning and professional growth. She brought her extensive medical background and compassionate nature to SWTVMC when she joined our team as a Client Service Coordinator in July of 2015.
Since joining the practice, Barbara has continued to expand her knowledge and expertise, earning several certifications including Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 2, Coggins Lab Training (EIA) through the USDA, and Fear Free Certificate in 2018. In 2019, she achieved certification in Cervid Chronic Wasting and Disease Sampling Collection (CWD), followed by her HR Management Certification and ACT/VHMA Client Service Certification as well as her PVU Communication and Service in 2021.
Barbara’s dedication to both her clients and colleagues reflects her commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering a positive, caring environment for every pet and owner she supports.
Mary Stapp
Client Service Coordinator
Mary grew up in Texas, Louisiana, Kansas, and New Mexico. Mary joined our team in June of 2020 as a Client Service Coordinator and brought with her a diverse background in art and design. Mary earned her degree in Communications and Design from the University of Phoenix.
In 2021, she completed her ACT/VHMA Client Service Certification and became Fear Free certified. Her creativity and compassionate nature help make each visit as positive and stress-free as possible for patients and clients.
Outside of the clinic, Mary enjoys graphic design, reading, gardening, traveling, and spending time with her pets- her 15-year-old dog Snickers, four cats (Lil Toot, Da Vinci, Thomasa, and Betty Boots), and her fish, Herman Munster.
Jenny Heard
Client Service Coordinator
Jenny was born and raised in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and attended McNese State University, where she studied Communications. She joined our team in 2014 and has been a valued member ever since. After moving to Shreveport, Louisiana, with her family, Jenny continued her career in veterinary medicine and later returned to us in 2015.
In September 2021, Jenny completed her ACT/VHMA Client Service Certification. She and her husband, Brad, have two wonderful children, Madison and Remington. They also share a Dachshund named Tabasco, Blue, a sweet Blue Heeler/coonhound mix, and a sweet kitty named Cina.
Outside of the clinic, Jenny enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and relaxing by the River in Concan.
Roxy Ramos, Animal Care Attendant
Animal Care Attendant
Roxy was born and raised in Uvalde, Texas. She graduated form Uvalde High School in 2013 and later earned her Associates of Artsdegree at Southwest Texas College.With a long-time love for all kinds of animals, Roxy knew she wanted to work in veterinary care from an early age.
Roxy joined our team in February of 2023 as an animal care attendant. She began her veterinary technician training later that year and completed her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 1 certification in July of 2023. She also earned her Fear Free Certificationshortly after joining our team, demonstrating her commitment to providing gentle and compassionate care to every patient.
Outside of work, Roxy enjoys playing video games, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends. She is also a proud mother to her baby boy Dominic, born in June of last year. Being a mom brings tremendous joy and fulfillment, and she brings that same dedication and heart to her work every day.
Amber West
Groomer
Amber moved to Texas with her family when she was in junior high. She graduated from Sabinal High School in 1992. After high school she studied nursing at Southwest Texas Junior College. Amber has been grooming dogs for over twenty years, and recently started grooming cats here at SWTVMC. Her passion for grooming started in junior high when she decided to groom her own poodle. She loves all dogs but especially enjoys grooming poodles, shih-tzu, and doodles. She is currently working towards completing her Fear Free Certification.
Amber enjoys camping, hiking, and kayaking. She also enjoys reading in her spare time.
Jessica Esquivel, CVA 1
Veterinary Technician
Jessica was raised in Knippa, Tx. She has 5 children, 4 boys and 1 girl. She also has 2 dogs, Tiny (pictured) and Bella. Jessica knew from a young age that she wanted to work in the medical field for animals.
Jessica received her Certified Veterinary Assistant certificate from Animal Behavior College. She also received her Fear Free Certification in 2023. The Fear Free program helps us make each visit as stress-free as possible for all of our patients. Jessica plans on continuing her education to become a Licensed Veterinarian Technician. Her long-term goal is to become a veterinarian.
Jessica has volunteered at San Antonio Pets Alive animal rescue which prepared her for her career at a veterinary clinic; she has worked with the public her whole career gaining valuable customer service skills.
Her hobbies include spending time with her family and animals.
Marc Jaquez, CVA 3
Veterinary Technician
Marc was born and raised in Uvalde, Tx. After graduating from Uvalde High School in 2019, he earned his Associates of Science degree from Southwest Texas College and later earned his Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science at Angelo State University.
Marc joined our team in January of 2024 and has since completed his Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 3.
In his free time, he enjoys working with animals, team roping, and spending time with his family and friends.
Jasmin Casey, CVA 1
Veterinary Technician
Jasmin joined our team in 2024 after graduating from Uvalde High School in 2024. She is Fear Free Certified and also earned her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 1 certification in December of 2024. Jasmin is currently attending Blinn College through their Hybrid program, where she is working towards becoming a Licensed Veterinary Technician.
Outside of the clinic, Jasmin enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and multiple species of animals and critters.
Madaline Samarripa
Animal Care Attendant
Madaline joined our team in August of 2024 as an Animal Care Attendant after graduating from Uvalde High School in 2024. Growing up, she developed a love for animals at an early age, inspired by her mom, who was a veterinary technician for nearly a decade.
Soon after joining our team, Madaline became Fear Free Certified, helping create a positive and stress-free experience for her patients. Madaline recently started her veterinary technician training and will soon begin working towards her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 1 certification.
In her spare time, Madaline enjoys going on walks and swimming with her boyfriend and her dog, Huey.
Justine Rowland
Animal Care Attendant
Justine was born and raised in Uvalde, TX. She later moved to Knippa where she graduated from high school in 2019. Always interested in animals and exploring careers that would allow her to care for them. Justine attended Brigham Young University Idaho and graduated in December of 2024 with her Associate of Science degree in Animal Science.
She joined our team in August of 2024 and has enjoyed learning and growing in her role. Justine is Fear Free Certified and passionate about providing a calm-stress-free experience for every patient she helps care for. In October of 2025, Justine also completed her Certified Veterinary Assistant Level 1 certification.
Outside of work, Justine loves spending time with her Border Collie / Lab mix Rigby. Rigby is playful, loves to cuddle, and keeps her busy. She enjoys hanging out with friends and traveling whenever she has a chance.
Allyna Gonzalez
Veterinary Technician
Allyna recently joined our team as a technician. She was born and raised in Uvalde and recently graduated with her Bachelor of Science degree from Newberry College located in South Carolina. Allyna plans to attend veterinary school in the future. She is passionate about caring for animals because she has always wanted to help those without voices. She loves her five dogs, especially her old man dog Smokey.
In her spare time, she enjoys running, working out, coaching soccer, and spending quality time with friends and family.
